Computer Designed Tiles

Colorful, see-through decals can be applied to any smooth surface--glass, ceramic, metal, plastic or accent tiles in the kitchen or bath.

Materials:

inkjet printer window decal sheets (from office supply stores)
art fixative spray
acrylic spray sealer for ceramics (optional)
X-Acto knife
scissors
ruler
alcohol pads
scrap paper or cardboard
paper towels

Steps:

Note: Follow Steps 1 through 5 for temporary decals. Add Steps 6 and 7 to make decals permanent and water-resistant.

1. Using page-layout or graphics-editor software, size the desired images and print them on decal sheets. To prevent smearing, spray a light coat of art fixative on the printed, uncut decal sheet. Let dry 15 minutes.
2. Wipe the surface to be decorated so it's free of dust and remove dirt or grease with an alcohol pad. Let dry.
3. Cut out the decal carefully. For better adherence, round sharp corners and points .
4. Work with clean, dry hands. Remove and discard the paper backing (avoid touching the sticky surface to prevent fingerprints).
5. Position the decal on the project surface and smooth it in place. If the image isn't aligned or there are bubbles, use the X-Acto blade to lift one edge and try again.
6. Once the decal is in place, mask-off the surrounding surface with scrap paper or cardboard if necessary. Spray the decal with art fixative, making sure to seal the edges. Let dry 20 minutes. Repeat six to ten times over the next 24 hours, letting each new coat dry longer than the previous one. Let the final coat dry overnight .
7. For a water-resistant seal, apply three coats of acrylic spray for ceramics according to the manufacturer's directions.

Tips:

• To apply decals to surfaces that are not completely flat, size the images carefully on regular paper until satisfied, and then print the decal sheets. If the decal extends beyond the flat surface onto the curved edge of a tile, there may not be a water -resistant seal.
• Give homemade salad dressings, chutneys and jams a professional look by adding a decal to the jar front or lid.
• Home-baked goods gain panache when bakery-style containers are topped with personalized patisserie stickers.

Resources
Digital Decorating: Designs and Projects from Your Home Computer
by Tami Peterson (ISBN: 156477354X)
Order this title.
Martingale and Company
Website: www.martingale-pub.com
Guests
Tami Peterson
Computer expert, author
321 Wall St.
Corning, NY 14830
Also in this Episode

Decorating With Style : Episode DWS-1022
•	Computer Designed Tiles
•	Embellished Frames
•	Arched Shelves
•	Painting Plastic